The Telethon Family Festival is building on its success with two new great additions to its line-up for 2023.
After a successful first year at its new home in the heart of the CBD, the free festival will once again branch out from the live fundraising spectacular at RAC Arena, stretching along Wellington Street, Telethon Avenue, and Yagan Square.
One of the new highlights of the event is a LEGO lounge, which is set to be a creative haven for all ages. Located on Level 1 of RAC Arena at the Bankwest Lounge, festival attendees are invited to explore the LEGO brick pit where they can bring their imaginations to life.
As an added bonus, 6000 LEGO mini-figurines will be given away to visitors.
Credit: Iain Gillespie/The West Australian
“We do a fair bit of work with affiliated charities like Camp Quality so it’s fantastic to be involved with Telethon,” WA Lego manager Andrew Matraszek said.
“There will be a big brick pit for kids to free play and we’ll also run some activities to build specific models.”
Credit: Iain Gillespie/The West Australian
You can also experience the thrill of inclusive sports with wheelchair basketball and football — showcased by Rebound WA and WA All Abilities Football Association, and Starkick and Swan Districts Football Club — at this year’s event for the first time.
“Many people may not be aware of the profound impact football can have in the lives of individuals with diverse abilities,” WA Football Commission manager Troy Kirkham said.
“Through our participation, we aim to raise awareness and highlight the fundamental truth that football is a sport for everyone. No matter the challenges one faces, if there is a desire to play, we are steadfast in our determination to facilitate that opportunity.”
The event on Sunday, October 22, from 10am to 4pm, will have a range of food trucks, carnival rides, community performances, roving entertainment, and more.
With free public transport on the day there is no reason to bring the car with trains and buses taking you directly to Telethon and the festival.
A family-friendly hub in Forrest Place will include an ice rink for all ages, plus jumbo inflatables.
Credit: Ross Swanborough/The West Australian
Plenty of people will be challenging themselves to help raise funds for Telethon on the day with a 24-hour treadmill run, marathon hula hooping, continuous rowing, and a 50km treadmill walk among the challenges taking place.
You can cheer on rugby league great Matt Fuller and the HBF team as they ride six hours non-stop to raise money for Telethon, plus meet Buddy the Quokka.
There will also be surprise appearances from celebrity guests at the Telethon Community Stage, while children’s entertainer Emma Memma and BB Butterfly will be doing a book signing from noon to 1pm.
Telethon general manager Mark McCrory said the festival would be the place to be on October 22.
“It is always so fantastic to see the sea of people who come along to the festival to show their support for Telethon and the sick kids of WA,” he said.
“We’re excited to welcome new festival highlights the LEGO brick pit inside the arena, as well as the All Abilities Sports area showing that everyone can play sport no matter your ability.”
The festival would not be possible without the help of presenting partner Coles, major supporter Lotterywest, supporting sponsor City of Perth, HBF, Crown, APM and Early Start Learning, Development WA, Channel 7, and The West Australian.